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If you’re considering replacing your windows with new UPVC windows, you may be wondering if you need a FENSA certificate. The short answer is no, a FENSA certificate is not a legal requirement for installing UPVC windows. However, there are still important reasons to ensure your windows comply with building regulations and are installed by a reputable company.
What is a FENSA Certificate?
FENSA stands for the Fenestration Self-Assessment Scheme. It’s a government-authorized program that allows window and door installers to self-certify that their work complies with building regulations. When an installer is FENSA registered, they can issue a FENSA certificate to the homeowner upon completion of the installation.
The FENSA certificate serves as proof that the windows or doors were installed according to building regulations. It also means the installation is registered with the local council, which is a legal requirement.
When is a FENSA Certificate Not Required or Needed?
There are several situations where a FENSA certificate is not necessary:
New Builds
If you are building a new home, the windows will be covered under the overall building regulations approval for the property. A separate FENSA certificate is not needed.
Extensions and Conservatories
Similarly, if you are adding an extension or conservatory to your home, the windows will be included in the building regulations approval for the project as a whole.
Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas
For listed buildings or properties in conservation areas, you will need to obtain separate planning permission and listed building consent for any window replacements. These take precedence over a FENSA certificate.
Repairs and Maintenance
If you are simply repairing or maintaining your existing windows, rather than replacing them, a FENSA certificate is not required. This includes replacing individual panes of glass or fixing damaged hardware.
Windows and Doors with Less Than 50% Glass
Importantly, windows or doors that have less than 50% glass do not require a FENSA certificate. This might include certain types of front doors or specialized windows.
It’s important to note that even if you don’t need a FENSA certificate, your windows must still comply with building regulations. Your installer should be able to advise you on the requirements and how they will ensure compliance.
Why You Might Want a FENSA Certificate
While a FENSA certificate isn’t mandatory, there are several benefits to getting one:
Peace of Mind
A FENSA certificate confirms your windows were installed correctly and meet all required standards for thermal performance, safety, and ventilation. This can give you peace of mind that your home is safe and energy-efficient.
Easier to Sell Your Home
If you decide to sell your property in the future, having a FENSA certificate can make the process smoother. Many buyers will ask for proof that any window or door replacements were completed in compliance with building regulations. Without a FENSA certificate, you may need to obtain a retroactive building regulation compliance certificate, which can be time-consuming and costly.
Insured Guarantee
FENSA certificates issued after June 2014 also verify that the installer’s guarantee is insured. This means if the installer goes out of business, your guarantee will still be honored by the insurance provider.
Alternatives to a FENSA Certificate
If your installer is not FENSA registered, there are other options available:
Building Regulations Compliance Certificate
Your installer can obtain a building regulations compliance certificate from your local authority. This will involve the council sending an inspector to review the installation and confirm it meets all requirements.
CERTASS Certification
CERTASS (Certification and Self Assessment) is another government-approved scheme similar to FENSA. CERTASS-registered installers can also self-certify their work and provide certificates proving compliance with building regulations.
Both of these alternatives serve the same purpose as a FENSA certificate in proving the work was done correctly. However, the local authority route can be a more expensive and lengthy process compared to the self-certification schemes.
Choosing a Reputable Installer
Astraframe recommends good local FENSA or CERTASS registered installers, so you don’t need to worry about compliance. This means you can focus on choosing the right windows for your home, knowing that the installation will be handled professionally and in line with all regulations.
The Bottom Line
In summary, a FENSA certificate is not strictly necessary when installing UPVC windows, especially if the windows have less than 50% glass. However, it does provide assurance that the work was completed to a high standard and in compliance with all relevant regulations. If you choose an installer who is not FENSA registered, make sure they obtain a building regulations compliance certificate from your local council or are certified by an alternative scheme like CERTASS.
Ultimately, the key is to work with a reputable installer who uses quality products and follows industry best practices. By choosing an Astraframe-recommended installer, you can be confident that your new UPVC windows will be installed correctly, look great, perform well, and stand the test of time.
